Governor Monday Okpebholo has alleged that rising insecurity across Nigeria is being fuelled by opposition elements seeking to discredit the administration of President Bola Tinubu.
Okpebholo made the remarks on Tuesday in Benin City during the flag-off of the All Progressives Congress (APC) campaign for the forthcoming local government elections in Edo South Senatorial District.
Okpebholo Blames Opposition for Security Challenges
The governor claimed that the recent increase in kidnappings and other security incidents was politically motivated and aimed at undermining the federal government.
According to him, those behind the insecurity would not achieve their political ambitions through such actions.
“There is no vacancy in Aso Rock. They can even kidnap all of us, yes, there is no vacancy in Aso Rock,” he said.
“What is happening today is the handiwork of the opposition. They have failed. Is it by kidnapping children? Then who are you going to govern? There will be nobody for you to govern.”
He urged those responsible to allow governments at all levels to focus on governance and development.
Tinubu’s Policies Yielding Results, Governor Says
Okpebholo also defended President Tinubu’s administration, arguing that the president had achieved more than previous administrations.
He pointed to ongoing projects in Edo State as evidence of the benefits arising from federal economic reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidy.
The governor maintained that the impact of the policy was becoming visible through infrastructure development and increased government investments.
APC Targets Strong Performance in Council Polls
Okpebholo congratulated candidates who emerged from the APC primaries ahead of the local government elections, expressing confidence in the party’s chances.
He said strong performances at the grassroots level would strengthen the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.
According to him, the APC remains committed to delivering what he described as the 2.5 million votes promised to President Tinubu in the next presidential election.
Party Chairman Expresses Confidence
Speaking at the event, Edo APC chairman Jarrett Tenebe described the ruling party as the dominant political force in the state.
He urged candidates to campaign on the achievements of the Okpebholo administration and take the message of development to communities across Edo State.